Axminster and Wilton are the two dominant woven carpet constructions used in hospitality and high-end commercial projects, and both have a long history in British textile manufacturing documented in design archives such as the Victoria and Albert Museum collections. Despite that shared heritage, the two weaving methods differ in ways that directly affect design capability, cost, and where each performs best.
1. How Axminster Weaving Works
Axminster looms insert individual tufts of coloured yarn at each point in the design, which allows an almost unlimited number of colours within a single pattern. This is why Axminster remains the preferred choice for highly detailed, multi-colour hotel corridor and lobby patterns, including bespoke branded designs.
2. How Wilton Weaving Works
Wilton looms weave continuous yarn through the full width of the carpet, which typically limits the practical colour count per design compared with Axminster but produces a distinctive, durable pile structure. Wilton is often chosen for plainer or two-tone designs where its particular texture and durability characteristics are the priority.
3. Design Complexity and Colour Count
If a project brief calls for an intricate multi-colour pattern — a detailed brand motif, a complex heritage-inspired design, or fine linework — Axminster is generally the more capable construction. Wilton suits simpler geometric or tonal designs where colour count is less critical to the design intent.
4. Durability Characteristics
Both constructions are manufactured for demanding commercial use, but their wear characteristics differ slightly due to the different weaving structures. Your supplier can advise on which construction best suits your project’s specific traffic level and design requirements.
5. Cost Considerations
Highly detailed Axminster designs with a high colour count generally involve more complex production and cost more than simpler Wilton designs, though the exact price difference depends on pattern complexity, order volume, and yarn specification for each individual project.
Which Should You Specify?
- Choose Axminster for detailed, multi-colour, bespoke branded corridor and lobby designs
- Choose Wilton for simpler, durable designs where a particular texture and finish is the priority
Not sure which construction suits your design brief? See examples of SolevoCarpet’s woven carpet ranges, or contact our team for a recommendation based on your pattern and budget.